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Shoemaker

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description Shoemaker Overview

Shoemaker is a deeply eroded impact structure in Western Australia, formed when an extraterrestrial object struck ancient Precambrian rocks. Formerly known as the Teague Ring, it was renamed in honor of planetary geologist Eugene Shoemaker, whose work helped establish impact cratering as a major geological process. Erosion has removed much of the original crater morphology, so the structure is identified chiefly through its circular geology and evidence of impact deformation.

help Shoemaker FAQ

Why was the Shoemaker crater in Australia renamed?

The structure was formerly known as the Teague Ring until it was renamed in honor of planetary geologist Eugene Shoemaker. His work helped establish impact crater recognition on Earth, and the site remains a deeply eroded impact structure formed when an extraterrestrial object struck ancient Precambrian rocks.

Where is the Shoemaker impact crater located in Australia?

The heavily degraded Shoemaker crater is located in Western Australia, sitting on ancient Precambrian rocks. Unlike younger craters, it does not have a distinct bowl shape, appearing instead as a large ring of uplifted geological formations.

What geological evidence proves Shoemaker is an impact crater?

Geologists confirmed its extraterrestrial impact origin through the discovery of shock metamorphic features like shatter cones and shocked quartz. These specific formations cannot be created by normal volcanic activity, firmly cementing its status as an impact site.

How big and old is the Shoemaker crater in Western Australia?

The Shoemaker crater is massive, with an estimated diameter of roughly 30 kilometers, though its exact age is difficult to pin down. It is believed to have formed in the Precambrian era, making it well over a billion years old.

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